New to the Sport

New to the sport? Have lots of questions?

Hopefully, we can help....An immediate attraction to horses seems to be a rite of passage when you are a child. If you or your child is a devoted horse lover perhaps it is time to begin looking for lessons. You can begin riding at any age, working with a certified coach will help you reach your goals with skill development appropriate to your level of experience.

There are many different styles and disciplines in this sport and parents of children who are not experienced in this field may feel slightly overwhelmed by all the information. Horseback riding involves making informed choices,but with the help of reliable horses and qualified instructors anything is possible! Welcome to the wonderful world of horses!

A Guide For New Riders

Tips for first-time horseback riders and parents

Download our guide for new riders. It contains helpful information on the following topics:

Tips On Choosing A Riding Facility

Why Choose A Certified Coach?

What Does It Mean To Be A Certified Coach?

What Are The Different Levels of Certification?

Certification Programs Set Goals for Riders

What Do You Wear To Your First Riding Lesson?

How Do I Fit A Riding Helmet?

What Are The Different Riding Disciplines?

What Are The Health Benefits of Riding?

Are You Ready To Own Your Own Horse?

Safety Tips For You

Understanding Horse Body Language

Do You Speak Horse?

Frequently Asked Riding Questions

Realistic Expectations For Rider Progression

Do you dream of learning to ride but don’t know how to get started? We have your Ticket to Ride!

To get the best possible first experience, select Certified Equestrian coaches are offering one of the following:FREE assessment lessonDISCOUNTED lessonDISCOUNTED campFREE introduction to horses barn tourHow to ParticipateVisit the NSEF website at www.horsenovascotia.ca;Click on the Coaching Menu, and scroll down to"Find a Certified Coach/Instructor";Click on discipline, English Western or Drive;Click "Ticket to Ride" under Level - Click county;A list will appear of participating coaches. Schedule your “Ticket to Ride” with your participating instructor/coach by organizing a date that works for you both.Notify the NSEF of the decided date your “Ticket to Ride” will take place and which instructor/coach you are redeeming with by emailing [email protected](Redeem your ticket & enjoy your equine experience!)

1. Age restrictions may apply;2. Safety Equipment Required; riding helmet, (may be supplied), boot or shoe with a heel, and long pants must be worn;3. Parent or Adult Guardian must accompany and remain with child;4. Waiver will be required.